Written Answers Tuesday 29 May 2007

Scottish Executive

Breastfeeding

Elaine Smith (Coatbridge and Chryston) (Lab): To ask the Scottish Executive what action it is taking to address the findings relevant to Scotland of the recently published Infant Feeding Survey 2005.

Shona Robison: The results will be analysed, and any necessary steps to address relevant factors will be co-ordinated by the National Infant Feeding Adviser when appointed.

Breastfeeding

Elaine Smith (Coatbridge and Chryston) (Lab): To ask the Scottish Executive how support for breastfeeding will be incorporated into the commitment to improving public health.

Shona Robison: We are considering how this can be achieved and are committed to promoting good eating habits from children’s earliest years including support for breastfeeding and establishing a healthy food policy.

Breastfeeding

Elaine Smith (Coatbridge and Chryston) (Lab): To ask the Scottish Executive when the new National Breastfeeding Adviser/National Infant Feeding Co-ordinator will now be appointed.

Shona Robison: We expect to be in a position to appoint by autumn 2007.

Breastfeeding

Elaine Smith (Coatbridge and Chryston) (Lab): To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it is taking to raise awareness among young people, including in schools, of the benefits of breastfeeding.

Shona Robison: The Scottish Government continues to promote breastfeeding as part of food and health education within schools and a whole-school approach to food is taken. Responsibility for local initiatives lies with NHS boards.

Breastfeeding

Elaine Smith (Coatbridge and Chryston) (Lab): To ask the Scottish Executive what encouragement will be given to peer support groups in assisting mothers to continue breastfeeding.

Shona Robison: The Scottish Government recognises the important role of peer support groups. We adopt a multifaceted approach to supporting breastfeeding; ranging from health promotion initiatives, education activities, health professional training, social support and media campaigns.

  The Sure Start Scotland initiative has, and will continue to, promote a range of peer support groups to assist mothers to continue breastfeeding.